Sofia Sarlat: "Diamond Life" (Song Review and Q&A)
We recently got the opportunity to sit down with singer/songwriter Sofia Sarlat and get personal behind the scenes about her career and inspiration for her newest release, Diamond Life!
Sofia Sarlat is a rising star with a background in jazz music that shines through in her soulful vocals and sophisticated musical arrangements. Hailing from the vibrant music scene of New York City, Sofia has been honing her craft for years, and it’s clear her dedication is paying off. With a voice that is both powerful and versatile, Sofia has a way of drawing listeners in with a soft tone and holding their attention from the first note to the very last. This new single is a breath of fresh air in an industry oversaturated with similar pop songs. Titled Diamond Life, the track is a mesmerizing blend of pop and R&B with a dancing bass line that may just climb the charts. From the moment that synth kicks in, you know you're in for something intriguing. Sonically, the production on Diamond Life provides clarity, with lush instrumentation that perfectly complements Sofia's voice. Instantly, listeners can be transported back to the early 2010’s golden age of classic dance hits. My first impression of the chorus was, in turn, Lady Gaga or Madonna. The trip back to this era was beyond nostalgic. In these genres, it can be easy to rely on autotune and other filters to mask sonic shortcomings, but what sets Sarlat apart from other emerging female artists in the pop world is her commitment to authenticity and her deep, rich vocals. Look no further and add this track to all your summer and dance playlists to manifest all things luxury. Diamond Life is available for download/listening on all platforms now!
“Why don’t we start from the very beginning? I felt like I was orchestrating a child’s dream.”
How was your creative process lyrically when writing Diamond Life? What inspired the song?
A: Writing Diamond Life was a magical process for me. I thought deeply about how I wanted to introduce myself as an artist to the world, so I thought “Why don't we start from the very beginning?”. Diamond life was written from the perspective of my younger self fantasizing her journey to the stars. The first chapter of my story. I felt like I was orchestrating a child’s dream. I love that the verses are very visual and ethereal, but the chorus is a pounding anthem that energizes the track.
What is your favourite venue to play at and why? Most memorable show?
A: I’ve been on many stages in New York, but I will say one of the most memorable was an “off-off” Broadway venue called 53 Above when I debuted and sold out my first cabaret performance. I was ignited to have complete control of my own show and direct a band for the first time in 2017. It was a moment where I knew this was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be and why?
A: The music industry has changed incredibly over the years, especially since social media has been an enigmatic driving force to reach audiences. I’ve loved embracing these changes, however I do feel that many leaders in the industry are competing with just releasing hot singles that hold a short attention span. We’ve almost lost the patience to create a whole body of art to listen to an entire album. In my perspective as an artist, it’s definitely pushing me to continue to write songs that maintain connection and adapt to this new culture.
How did you go about the recording/production process for this single, and how did you decide on this release?
A: I wrote Diamond Life in two days time. As soon as I finished recording the lead vocals, I knew that this song was something I didn't want to rush to put out right away. I felt like an artist adding more layers to a canvas the more I listened to it. As my first pop song, I wanted to commit 100% quality to every angle of the track from the vocals, production and social media visuals. I’m very proud that I was very patient in this process.
Who has played the best live show you’ve ever seen?
A: I had the most awe-inspiring experience at Beyonce’s Renaissance World Tour. She embodies the essence of perseverance to not let anything get in the way of what you want to achieve. The most captivating thing about her show is that from the front row to the back, she made you FEEL seen with her soul. It’s my #1 goal when I perform
Any takeaways you’d like fans to have from this single?
A: I want my fans to feel empowered when they sing the chorus. To uplift themselves to their very own “Diamond Life” whatever it may be to them.
What song (if any) by another artist do you wish you had written?
A: “Flaws and All” by Beyonce.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
A: “Is the routine you are doing today leading you to be the best version of yourself tomorrow?”
Who are your top female inspirations in the entertainment industry?
A: Lady Gaga, Beyonce and Amy Winehouse. Innovative, strong and powerhouse females that inspire my work ethic and perseverance on a daily basis.
What’s next for you as an artist? Future releases/plans?
A: I am really excited for my next single release this summer entitled “Deep Desire”, and I am in the works of finishing my EP to be set to release in Fall 2024. I cant wait to introduce myself to the world.
Check out Sarlat’s latest release HERE!